If work requires you to stay in a country miles away from your family with only brief windows to visit them now and again, it’s almost inevitable that you won’t be there for some of the important milestones in your child’s life. While it may be easy to dismiss these moments as being not as important compared to their overall well-being, the truth is that your presence, even if not directly physical, can have an immense impact in your child’s eyes that means so much more to them than you think.
The good thing is that, even though you may not be fully able to be present, there are many other ways to celebrate and let your child know that you recognize their achievements that will get across to them just as much.
Why Celebrating Milestones Matters
When you’re there for your child’s milestones, it:
1 | Boosts their Confidence
When children are aware that their parents are present during important events, especially academic achievements and competitions, they understand that someone is there to support them unconditionally, and will fully recognize their efforts if they give it their all. Guidance Counselor Adrian Joseph Carnal explains that,
"It really matters to a child kasi naniniwala na this is not just mere celebrations (..) nung nakita nila yung parents nila cheering for them kahit sa mga performances nila— nag-iiba yung aura nila kasi— it really has a big effect on a child or a teenager or even an adult kasi iba yung presence, iba yung nadadala non sa tao.”
2 | Helps them find their home and safe space.
In spite of all the differences inherent in a long-distance dynamic, being there to celebrate their achievements, both big and small, will help reassure them that no matter the distance, family is still family.
And here’s what that presence and support can give back to you:
1 | A Reminder of Your Impact
Seeing your child’s big accomplishments reminds you of the meaningful impact your hard work has on their lives. It allows you to recognize that, even while physically apart, your actions are still having an important effect.
2 | Insight into Their Growth
Being aware of their milestones reminds you that they are constantly changing and growing as people—not just physically, but also in what they are interested in and want to achieve in life. It might be daunting to fully accept how fast they’re growing up without you around to see it. But through proper communication and showing them your support, one thing that’ll stay the same is them knowing they can rely on you to show unwavering support in whatever they pursue.
